Comparative modelling of drone interventions with traditional logistics modes for expedited and equitable deliveries

Abstract

Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs/drones) for deliveries have become a key consideration for logistics planners, particularly in the healthcare industry. Despite reported theoretical cost and speed benefits, few systems have realised long-term financially sustainable operations. This paper explores UAVs in a multi-mode logistics system (vans, UAVs, bicycles) using medical sample delivery case studies in the United Kingdom, and a computational model that accounts for routing, landing restrictions, costs, and payload constraint practicalities. Results identified potential transit time reductions of up to 90% using UAVs, though costs increased significantly (+133%). Achieving these time savings required UAV access to all sites and residents tolerating up to 40 flight movements per hour. Other time savings were possible with partial or no UAV uptake; however, all expedited solutions increased costs, raising the question of the value of such time savings, and whether any benefits would materialise, given onward supply chain limitations and changeable weather.